Man accused of posing as cop, assaulting girl

SHIRLEY Seventh Squad detectives conducted an investigation into allegations made by a 14-year-old girl that led to the arrest of 45-year-old Gary Meenahan, of 94 Propose Road, Shirley.

The victim reported that, on the morning of January 7, she arrived at William Floyd High School but left the grounds before school began.

She told police that she went to an abandoned property located near the school on Mastic Beach Road where local youths frequently congregate.

While alone inside an abandoned trailer on the property, Meenahan allegedly told the victim that he was an undercover police officer. Authorities believe Meenahan then told the girl she couldn't leave and proceeded to sexually abuse the girl. He eventually allowed the victim to leave so that she could take the school bus home, police said.

Meenahan is charged with third-degre sexual abuse, second-degree attempted criminal sexual act and first degree criminal impersonation. Meenahan was arraigned at First District Court Thursday.

Detectives are requesting anyone who has information concerning Meenahan, or any other persons who may have been victimized by Meenahan, to contact them at the Seventh Squad at 631-852-8752 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS.

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